As you might expect, concrete roofing tiles are manufactured from sand, cement, and water, though the exact materials tend to vary between manufacturers. Concrete tile is available in several different shapes, designs, and colors. The surface texture of individual tiles can be smooth or rough, and most colors are mixed into the concrete, rather than applied as a coating to the tile.
Residential Roofing Materials: Pros & Cons of Concrete Tile Roofing
Like any residential roofing material, there are pros and cons to consider if you’re thinking about replacing your roof. Among the many choices available in residential roofing, concrete tile roofing offers several advantages for homeowners, along with a few challenges.
Tile Roofing Advantages
Long term durability: Concrete tiles have been installed around the world for over 100 years, providing a long track record of performance when compared to other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. They are resistant to damage from large hail, high winds and fire. Most manufacturers offer warranties from 50 years to the life of the structure.
Economical construction: Tile roofing has the lowest long-term cost of any residential roofing material. Because roof tiles are installed individually, replacing a broken tile is simple. While all roofs require some maintenance, tile roofing systems require minimal upkeep under normal conditions. Maintenance is generally restricted to gutters, flashings, and venting.
Color/style choice: Roof tiles come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. In fact, manufacturers produce residential roofing tiles to suit almost any architectural style, from contemporary to European, New England Colonial, or historic designs. Roof tiles can be flat or round, can simulate wood shakes, or seek to duplicate centuries-old designs. Concrete tiles are manufactured in a wide array of colors, from light to dark or multi-colored, allowing you to easily coordinate your roof with exterior colors.
Tile Roofing Disadvantages
Installation: The primary drawback to concrete tile roofing systems is difficulty in installation. These systems can be a challenge to install correctly, so you’ll want to make sure you hire an experienced roofer to do the job.
Timing and tools: The installation process can take longer than with other roofing materials, and requires special tools to do the job right.
If you’re considering a roof replacement or are purchasing a roof for a newly constructed home, contact the experts at All Roofing Solutions. We have experience with all types of roofing systems and can handle all your roofing installation & repair needs. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) or request your free quote online!